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Management of chest trauma: a review
1Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307.
West African Journal of Medicine
|April 1, 1993
Summary
Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a leading cause of chest trauma, particularly in males aged 20-50. Prompt management is crucial for survival, with most patients responding to resuscitation and tube thoracostomy.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Chest trauma incidence has risen due to increased road traffic accidents (RTAs).
- RTAs are now a primary cause of chest trauma, surpassing wartime gunshot wounds (GSWs).
- Males aged 20-50 are most affected, impacting their productive years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the epidemiological trends of chest trauma.
- To outline the critical management principles for chest trauma.
- To identify factors contributing to mortality in chest trauma patients.
Main Methods:
- Review of chest trauma incidence and causes.
- Analysis of patient demographics and mortality rates.
- Discussion of current management strategies and their efficacy.
Main Results:
- Approximately 15% of chest trauma patients die immediately or within an hour of arrival.
- 80% of survivors respond to resuscitative measures and tube thoracostomy.
- 5% require emergency thoracotomy.
Conclusions:
- Effective management of chest trauma requires prompt restoration of cardiorespiratory function and hemorrhage control.
- Timely intervention can significantly improve survival rates.
- Common causes of death include airway obstruction, hemorrhage, and associated injuries.